Special Coverage

DETROIT – BMW AG introduces the ’12 1-Series M Coupe and 650i convertible at the North American International Auto Show here.

The newest M model will be powered by a 3.0L I-6 with twin-turbochargers and features a specifically tuned version of the current M3’s aluminum suspension.

The 1-Series M also has a substantially widened track and a metal roof panel that weighs 35 lbs. (16 kg) less than the moon roof in the standard 1-Series. Reducing weight at the tallest point of the vehicle lowers the car’s center of gravity to improve vehicle dynamics.

The 650i convertible features a classic soft-top roof and is powered by BMW’s 4.4L turbocharged V-8 that makes 400 hp and 450 lb.-ft. (610 Nm) of torque. Two transmissions are available: a standard 6-speed manual and optional 8-speed automatic with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

As with the previous version, the new 650i convertible features a super-insulated folding soft-top that can retract in 19 seconds at vehicle speeds up to 25 mph (40 km/h). The interior features a fresh design with more passenger space, improved ergonomics, and lush materials, including optional full-leather trim with contrast stitching.

The 1-Series M Coupe will base price at $47,010, while the ’12 BMW 650i convertible will start at $91,375. Prices include an $875 destination charge. Both cars go on sale in the U.S. in the spring.

The BMW Group (including Mini) says it posted strong sales gains in the U.S. last year, especially with its cross/utility vehicles and Mini brand. Total deliveries jumped 9.9% to 265,757 units, compared with 241,727 in 2009.

BMW brand sales climbed 12% to 220,113 units, compared with year-ago’s 196,502. In December, best-selling vehicles included the 5-Series, up 28.9% to 5,045 units; 3-Series, up 12.3% to 10,067; X5, up 12.1% to 3,939; and X6, up 52.8% to 859.

Overall, despite its sexy car lineup, BMW says its CUV models (the X3, X5, X6), were among its best sellers, up 26.9% for the year to 48,108 units, compared with 37,925 in 2009.

Mini USA reported 4,320 deliveries last month, a 23.8% hike from 3,489 in like-2009, making it the most-successful December ever for the brand in the U.S.

Total calendar-year sales for 2010 were 45,644 units, a 0.9% uptick from 2009.